Purchasing Officer (Ballarat)

About the Business Freighter Group is a leading name in Australian manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality transport solutions. With a focus on innovation and operational excellence, we are currently undergoing an exciting period of growth and transformation. We pride ourselves on a collaborative culture where every team member plays a vital role in our continued success. About the Role We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive purchasing officer to join our team at our Wendouree head office and factory. This is a pivotal role designed to bridge the gap between our suppliers and our production floor. You will be responsible for the end-to-end purchasing lifecycle, ensuring that raw materials and components are available exactly when our manufacturing teams need them. Key Responsibilities Create and manage Purchase Orders (POs) and source essential parts and raw materials. Coordinate procurement schedules with production and workshop teams to ensure zero downtime. Monitor stock levels, manage replenishment, and identify opportunities to reduce slow-moving or obsolete stock. Build and maintain strong relationships with local and overseas vendors, negotiating pricing and resolving any delivery or quality disputes. Monitor shipments and delivery timelines to ensure an on-time supply chain. Monitor KPIs related to procurement efficiency and identify cost-saving opportunities through trend analysis. Skills & Experience A Jack of all Trades type: Willing to roll up sleeves and be involved in special projects. Proven experience in a procurement, purchasing, or inventory-focused role, ideally within a manufacturing or industrial environment. Robust negotiation skills and the ability to manage diverse supplier relationships. High level of proficiency with ERP/MRP (Pref SAP S4 Hana / JDE) systems and the Microsoft Office suite. Excellent communication skills with the ability to coordinate across different departments. A \"solutions-focused\" mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Why Join Us? Stability & Growth: Join a well-established Australian company during a significant phase of organizational development. Impact: Play a direct role in the efficiency and output of a major manufacturing site. Culture: Work within a supportive team workplace that values professional contribution and internal collaboration. #J-*****-Ljbffr Apply on Kit Job: kitjobau.com/job/3rdw1w